Pakistan speedster Mohammad Amir announces retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect

Pakistan speedster Mohammad Amir, who finished ICC World Cup 2019 being the highest wicket taker for his side has announced retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. Mohammad Amir made his Test debut as a 17-year-old in Sri Lanka in 2009, and after some hurdles in his International career he finally calls it a day in the longest format. He walks away from the format after having picked 119 wickets in the 36 games he has played. Interestingly, Amir will continue to feature in shorter format of the game.

Mohammad Amir, in the statement, "It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game. I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white ball cricket."

"Playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective, and I will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team's upcoming challenges, including next year's ICC T20 World Cup," he added. 

Amir played 22 of his 36 Tests since comeback in 2016, picking up 68 wickets and achieving his career-best figures of 6 for 44 against West Indies in Jamaica. Amir decided against extending this run with a view on the upcoming Test championship and the need to clear the deck for other up and coming pacers.

Amir termed the decision as an easy one as he has been pondering about the same since long. With ICC World Test Championship set to begin with Ashes Test between England and Australia, Amir believes that retiring just before the Championship will give time to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to plan accordingly. 

"It has not been an easy decision to make and I have been thinking about this for some time. But with the ICC World Test Championship commencing shortly, and Pakistan boasting some very exciting young fast bowlers, it is appropriate that I call on my time in Test cricket so that the selectors can plan accordingly."

HIGHLIGHTS

• Mohammad Amir announced retirement from Test cricket. 
• Amir will continue to feature in the limited overs. 
• Mohammad Amir featured in 36 Tests and scalped 119 wickets.